Elon Musk’s Starlink is anticipated to start operations in Pakistan by the end of this year, and the government is preparing to introduce its first satellite based internet service.
Starlink has already applied for registration with the national authorities and stated its desire to conduct business in accordance with Pakistani laws and regulations.
As stated by the sources, an international satellite regulatory framework that might involve the framework for issuing licenses to satellite internet service providers is right now being finalized by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (P-SARB).
After the framework is finished, Starlink will legally register with the board and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will grant it an operational license.
Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja went to a recent workshop organized by P-SARB with satellite businesses at a hotel located nearby for the purpose of the preparations.
Businesses in the industry such as Amazon, OneWeb, as well as Shanghai Telecom have additionally expressed interest in establishing satellite internet operations in Pakistan. Starlink is still the only business to formally apply under the evolving structure, though.
There is speculation that Elon Musk may personally attend the launch event in Pakistan later this year. Starlink, which is already operational in other South Asian countries, is expected to significantly enhance internet connectivity and digital infrastructure across Pakistan, especially in underserved and remote areas.
The availability of Starlink satellite internet services, according to officials, will strengthen the attempts of Pakistan at digitization, increase connection, and foster economic growth by generating more income. They also affirmed that there is no security risk associated with Starlink’s activities for the nation’s government agencies.
